Josh “Brown” Ballou
The Broadside
With spring break just around the corner—thank goodness— there are lots of things you can do right here in Central Oregon.
Check out any of the new movies dropping like “Red Riding Hood” (March 11), “The Lincoln Lawyer” (March 18), or the long awaited action flick “Sucker Punch” (March 25).
Movies not your speed? What about some late-night bowling with Power 94. Cosmic Bowl is every Friday night at Lava Lanes (10:30p.m.-1a.m.). If you want to find more adult activities “around town” here are a few places you might check out.
MadHappy Lounge
850 NW Brooks St.
This is the newest hot spot in Bend’s local scene. Swank, hip, and artistically rich, the MadHappy Lounge provides a lush sanctuary just off the breezeway for those who enjoy the finer things.
Before you even make it into the bar you encounter a diverse mix of Madhappy regulars who are enjoying a break from the sensory overload you experience once you enter the lounge.
As you open the doors, you might be enveloped by the sounds of live music from any number of local bands that have already graced the modest staging that is encapsulated in the front rooms main window, so walkers by can be drawn in to come share in the evening’s festivities. Or you might be hit by the sounds of a live DJ spinning any number of eclectic tunes to help you shake off the blues of the day, week, or to prepare you for the weekend to come.
Once inside you notice the exposed brick wall, the art, and the bar which is placed as the center fixture, allowing everyone to enjoy libations of various sorts.
The bar is opposite the narrow passageway that leads to a nice little lounge where you can enjoy more art and some comfy seating with your friends as you discuss what moves you most.
The Madhappy Lounge is the brainchild of Reggie Martinez who was behind the bar keeping glasses full, so much so that I couldn’t steal him away for a word. If you are looking to elevate your spring break experience, up your game and check out the MadHappy Lounge.
SEVEN
1033 NW Bond St.
Well known and loved by those who regularly get out, SEVEN is a solid fixture in Bend It offers a wide array of options to come out and play.
If getting dirty over spring break is your thing, no need to hit the trails or the mountain just head out to SEVEN on Thursday night for “DIRTY Thursday.”
Every week without fail the masses fall into SEVEN to dance off a week’s worth of tests, papers, lectures etc. Live DJ, strong drinks and a great wait staff will help you forget all about… you know, that school you attend.
If you are one of the unfourtunates who actually have class on Friday, don’t worry SEVEN has Friday and Saturday night parties as well with DJ ATL.
Pool tables, and a small menu of edible delights and SEVEN is easily a place you can make your home on the weekends.
For a full list of events and to friend them on Facebook check them out online at www.sevenbend.com.
VELVET
805 NW Wall St.
Upscale with a friendly feel, Velvet is one of the first places I discovered by accident when I moved to Bend.
Two levels of posh sophistication grounded by a great staff and regulars. If you and your friends are looking for a great place to sit and enjoy drinks, food, and talk without the masses of the bigger clubs Velvet is the place for you.
Open Monday through Saturday 5p.m.-2a.m.—the web says “late”, Velvet is hidden on Wall just south of the Tower Theatre. One of the great hiding places in Bend.
If you want to check out the menu or friend them on Facebook go to their website www.velvetbend.com for more information.
THE BOONDOCKS
70 NW Newport Ave.
Well known as a regular hot-spot in the city The Boondocks offers the largest space I know of in the city to go and party.
Grab all of your friends and head out to enjoy the patio, the games, the bar, the food, and the people.
Boondocks offers an interesting mix of people from cowboys to club kids. This club has a youthful spirit and a huge dance floor to let free your spirit.
A live DJ keeps the party going and two huge full service bars keep everyone happy.
With a host of activities that go on throughout the month make sure you check out the marquee outside the Boondocks to find out what night you need to be in the house!
Summit Saloon a.k.a. The Summit
125 NW Oregon Ave.
The Summit is a sports bar and so much more offering food, drinks, live music, DJ’s, pool, and great people.
Downstairs is the dining area where people tend to congregate and enjoy the company of friends or others who might be running around.
Upstairs you find the dance floor, pool tables and another bar – did I mention the main bar downstairs is huge? Bring your thirst.
I haven’t been to The Summit often but I know I will be heading there real soon for some upcoming live shows. The Summit features great local talent performing live from in Central Oregon.
For upcoming events check them out online at www.summitsaloon.com.
Josh Ballou can be reached at [email protected]
MADHAPPY LOUNGE
850 NW Brooks St.
Monday Nights: MadHappy Mondays
SEVEN
1033 NW Bond St.
www.sevenbend.com
Tuesday nights: Karaoke Night
Thursday nights: DIRTY Thursday
Friday nights: Comedy, “Ultimate dance party”
Saturday nights: Resident and guest DJ
VELVET
805 NW Wall St.
www.velvetbend.com
Open Monday through Saturday, 5pm-2am
THE BOONDOCKS
70 NW Newport Ave.
www.bdocks.com
SUMMIT SALOON
AKA THE SUMMIT
125 NW Oregon Ave
www.summitsaloon.com
Open Sunday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 10ish p.m.
Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. through 1:30ish a.m.
Thursday Nights: Sick Flicks with Ninkasi
Other events:
March 2: The Super Villains with Necktie Killer
March 12: Blazer Nights with KBND 1110
March 17: St. Patrick’s Day
March 20: Blazer Nights with KBND 1110
March 28: Blazer Nights with KBND 1110